Mount St. Michael Forest
The Lungs of the Bronx
0
Trees
0
Square Feet
0
Native Species
0
Youth Impacted
Mount St. Michael Forest, a coastal Oak-Hickory pocket forest, will be planted on the campus of Mount Saint Michael Academy in the Bronx, New York City. The project will feature 30 native tree and plant species, transforming the school’s lawn into a vibrant, biodiverse ecosystem.
Mount Saint Michael Academy — an all-boys school serving over 800 students in grades 6 through 12 — is committed to environmental stewardship. In 2018, it became one of the first schools in New York City to install a solar electric system, demonstrating its dedication to sustainability. With the creation of this forest, the school deepens that commitment, aiming to become “The Lungs of the Bronx,” a living model for urban greening and community well-being.
This land also carries deep historical significance — it lies on territory once inhabited by the Siwanoy, a Munsee-speaking band of the Lenape people. Honoring this legacy, the forest will stand as both a symbol of ecological renewal and cultural remembrance.
Forest Maker
Ethan Bryson
Forest Partner
Forest Design
The site is currently a grass lawn that is unused by the school or the students. The school is looking to green up their lawn space with the planting of 2,000 trees (35 species) to create a peaceful and relaxing oasis for the students.
The forest will be accessible to all students and will hopefully be incorporated into their Biology program.
The forest will also be fully visible from the street to the public, with the forest being just a few feet away from the sidewalk.
